From student to mentor: A story of connection and collaboration at CCCC’s Industrial Systems Technology Program
SANFORD, N.C. - The Industrial Systems Technologies (IST) program at Central Carolina Community College (CCCC) continues to flourish thanks to the support of alumni and community partners. One inspiring story shared by CCCC Industrial Technologies Instructor Scott Butcher highlights the journey of Adrienne Maddaloni, whose path came full circle with the program.
“Adrienne, like many students, came to the community college unsure of her direction,” Butcher explained. “She decided to enroll in the Industrial Systems program at CCCC, where she met fellow student Wesley Womack — now the department chair.”
After completing the program, Maddaloni served 12 years in the U.S. Army before returning to civilian life. Her career path led her to Mertek Solutions, where she works alongside longtime IST supporter Jerry Pedley.
“She designs, builds, and teaches using the skills she developed through her time at CCCC, her military experience, and her current work at Mertek,” said Butcher.
Upon learning that Womack was now teaching at CCCC, Maddaloni visited campus to reconnect. During her visit, Butcher gave her a tour of the updated facilities and reintroduced her to Womack. This meeting led to a new opportunity. Mertek had excess parts in a warehouse and Maddaloni put them together so CCCC could use them for training.
“Adrienne suggested it would be a great hands-on project for our IST students, and Jerry agreed,” recalled Butcher. Butcher and Womack then visited Mertek to collect the project and found Maddaloni training one of CCCC’s current students, Max Campos.
“Max was in his final semester and preparing to begin his career journey,” said Butcher. Campos was interning at Mertek. He now has graduated from CCCC and is working fulltime at Mertek.
Reflecting on these connections, Butcher noted, “It’s funny where life takes us. I’m thankful to have met a new friend in Adrienne and hope to build lasting relationships like those between Wesley and Adrienne.”
CCCC extends heartfelt thanks to Jerry Pedley and Adrienne Maddaloni for their ongoing support. As Butcher emphasized, “We could not do what we do without community partners like them.”
The Industrial Systems Technology program equips students with the comprehensive skills and training necessary to excel as a technician in an industrial environment.
As a multi-craft curriculum, instruction emphasizes understanding of fundamental machine concepts, systems development, troubleshooting, maintenance practices & strategies, and practical applications. Topics include Electricity, PLC's, Hydraulics, Pneumatics, Motors, Control Systems, Blueprints, Safety, Troubleshooting, HVAC, Welding, and Machining.
Students learn to utilize diagnostic tools and equipment to troubleshoot, diagnose, and repair a variety of systems used in the manufacturing and industrial workplace.
Learn more about the Industrial Systems Technologies (IST) program at CCCC.